UAE vs Bangladesh – 2nd T20I Match Preview (19 May 2025)

Date: 19 May 2025
Time: 16:00 GMT / 19:00 Local Time / 20:30 IST
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, United Arab Emirates
Format: T20 International
Series: 2nd of 2 T20Is in the Bangladesh Tour of United Arab Emirates
Series Format: UAE vs Bangladesh – 2 T20Is

Match Context

The second T20I between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bangladesh is set to be a crucial encounter in the ongoing two-match series. Following Bangladesh's dominant 27-run victory in the first match, the UAE will be eager to bounce back and showcase the improvements they’ve made in the 48-hour break.

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium, a venue known for its balanced conditions and high-scoring games, will once again host the action. With a history of favoring batting teams, the pitch could play a significant role in determining the outcome of this match.

Team Updates

Bangladesh (BAN):

• Captain: Litton Das
• Key Players: Soumya Sarkar, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam.
• Form: Bangladesh started the series with a strong performance, chasing down 164 with relative ease. The middle order showed resilience, and the bowlers were clinical in the first game.
• Tactics: Expect Bangladesh to continue with a balanced approach, utilizing the pace of Rishad Hossain and the spin of Shoriful Islam to control UAE’s aggressive batting line-up.

United Arab Emirates (UAE):

• Captain: Muhammad Waseem
• Key Players: Rahul Chopra, Muhammad Jawadullah, Saghir Khan, and Asif Khan.
• Form: The UAE struggled in the first match, failing to enforce pressure and being dismissed for 164. However, the team has shown promise in the past with explosive batting and consistent bowling spells.
• Tactics: The UAE will likely focus on aggressive batting in the powerplay to set a competitive total and rely on their experienced bowlers to contain the Bangladeshi chase.

Key Battles to Watch

1. Rahul Chopra vs. Mustafizur Rahman: A classic battle between UAE's top-order anchor and Bangladesh's world-class leg-spinner.
2. Soumya Sarkar vs. UAE's spinners: If the UAE can execute tight spin bowling, Sarkar’s consistency could be tested.
3. Rishad Hossain vs. UAE's middle order: The Bangladeshi all-rounder could be the difference-maker in the death overs.

Pitch & Weather Insights

• The Sharjah pitch historically favors batting teams, with an average first innings score of 152 and second innings of 125.
• Pace dominates at 57.05%, while spin accounts for 42.95%, offering an advantage to both departments depending on the match flow.
• The weather is expected to be clear and pleasant, with no threat of rain, allowing for full 20-overs for both teams.

Prediction

Considering the current form and the venue's batting-friendly nature, Bangladesh remain the favorites to win the second match as well. However, the UAE have shown in the past that they can adapt quickly and turn the tide in their favor.

Expected Score:

• UAE: 170-175
• Bangladesh: 180-185

Prediction Outcome:
Bangladesh to win by 5-7 runs, extending their dominance in the series. However, the UAE will aim to make it a close contest and show their fighting spirit.

Broadcast & Live Streaming

• India: Fancode
• Bangladesh: TSports
• MENA region: Cricbuzz
• Pakistan: Geo Super
• USA & Canada: Sling TV / Willow TV
• Rest of the World: Sportseye / YouTube

Conclusion

This second T20I promises to be an exciting showdown between two teams with contrasting styles but equal determination. While Bangladesh have the upper hand after the first match, the UAE will be looking to prove their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Cricket fans can expect a thrilling game of skill, strategy, and intensity at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
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